Last updated November 2026
Maketu Waterfall is an 8-metre cascade on the Maketu Stream in native bush on the eastern edge of Drury, roughly 20 minutes north of Pukekohe.
The track begins at a small car park beside an old cemetery at the corner of Ararimu Road and Pratt Road, descends through bush with stairs and steeper sections, and finishes at the base of the falls. It serves as a popular summer swimming spot and a pleasant short outing at any time of year.
Practical Information
- Location
- Corner of Ararimu Road and Pratt Road, Ramarama east of Drury
- Distance from Pukekohe
- Approximately 20 km north (about 20-minute drive)
- Waterfall Height
- 8 metres
- Walk Duration
- 0.5–1 hour return
- Difficulty
- Easy to moderate with stairs and steep sections
- Swimming
- Yes, popular in summer at the base pool
- Entry
- Free
- Parking
- Small car park at the trailhead
- Hazards
- Muddy after rain; good footwear recommended
About the Walk and Falls
The track starts beside the historic cemetery and drops through regenerating native bush to the stream. Despite its closeness to the Southern Motorway and Drury, the canopy and stream sounds create a secluded feel within minutes. Stairs assist on the steeper parts, yet the path remains compact and straightforward for most walkers.
The waterfall drops 8 metres into a pool that attracts swimmers on warm days. Visitors can scramble above the falls to explore the rocky stream bed if they wish to extend their stay. The setting combines native forest, moving water, and a sense of discovery just off the main routes.
The site lies in the rural Ramarama area between Drury and Pukekohe on the eastern side of the motorway corridor, near the Maketu Historic Reserve that includes pa terraces and pits.
The falls sit within the Maketū Pā cemetery reserve, a historic pā site, and the reserves are looked after by Whatapaka Marae, so treat the area with respect and do not remove or disturb any graves or remains, which are protected by law. The small car park beside the cemetery has no facilities.
Where to Learn More
Waterfalls of New Zealand — Maketu Waterfall: GPS coordinates, photos, and waterfall details.
Auckland Council — Te Maketū walk: heritage context for the surrounding reserve and cemetery area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Maketu Waterfall?
The trailhead sits at the corner of Ararimu Road and Pratt Road, east of Drury and the Southern Motorway. It lies about 20 km north of Pukekohe, a roughly 20-minute drive.
How long is the walk?
The return trip takes 30 minutes to one hour, depending on pace and time spent at the falls.
Can you swim at Maketu Waterfall?
Yes, the pool at the base is a popular swimming spot, especially during summer. It can become busy on warm weekends.
Is it suitable for children?
Older children comfortable with stairs and short steep sections will enjoy the walk. It is less suitable for very young children or prams.
Is it free?
Yes, entry to the track and waterfall is free.
What are the hazards?
The track can turn muddy after rain and includes stairs plus steeper sections. Sturdy footwear with good grip is recommended year-round.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are sometimes seen on the track, but visitors should check current Auckland Council rules before bringing them.
Is there parking?
A small car park is available at the trailhead beside the cemetery.
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